The Trick Williams SmackDown confrontation drew intense reactions when an unexpected mishap occurred during a live segment on January 9, 2026. The two-time NXT Champion’s highly anticipated arrival on WWE’s blue brand quickly became a talking point due to a botched microphone incident involving Williams and veteran wrestler Randy Orton.
Williams Officially Joins SmackDown Roster
After spending four years building his reputation in NXT, Trick Williams was promoted to the SmackDown roster, with the crowd energetically chanting “whoop that trick” in support. Williams’ previous connection with Carmelo Hayes from their NXT days resurfaced, as Hayes himself had been drafted to SmackDown earlier in 2024, while Williams had continued his journey—including becoming TNA World Champion during a crossover rivalry—before receiving his call-up. The move marks a new chapter for Williams, who is already a two-time NXT Champion entering WWE’s primary stage.
Face-Off with Randy Orton Escalates to On-Air Blunder
Williams’ SmackDown debut featured a high-tension face-off with Randy Orton, who had just returned to WWE after a two-month hiatus. As the two exchanged sharp words, Williams asserted that while Orton has long been considered “The Viper” and a veteran, the future belongs to new talents. During the confrontation, Williams swatted the microphone out of Orton’s hand. By their visible reactions—Williams mouthing “oh sh*t” and Orton shielding his eyes from the audience—it was clear that the incident did not go as planned.
“trick’s “ oh shit” i think somebody got hit 😭 pic.twitter.com/Tdk2589yv8— chey⚡️ (@meloismone) January 9, 2026”
Although some spectators speculated that the microphone may have struck someone in the audience, no confirmation or further details were released immediately following the event. The mishap, coupled with the crowd’s intense reactions, transformed what should have been a straightforward introduction into a moment brimming with concern and awkwardness.
Post-Confrontation Chaos and Williams’ SmackDown Debut Match
Moments after the accidental botch, Randy Orton retaliated by delivering an RKO to Williams. The ongoing tension didn’t end there, as The Miz unexpectedly stormed into the ring and targeted Orton. Despite the confusion and heightened emotions, Williams participated in his first official SmackDown match shortly after, facing off against Rey Fenix. In a successful start to his main roster journey, Williams emerged victorious.
The Trick Williams SmackDown confrontation and its surrounding chaos set a dramatic tone for his tenure on the blue brand. The incident underscores both the unpredictability of live wrestling and the vulnerability of even seasoned entertainers during high-stakes segments. As Williams continues his WWE ascent, fans and talents alike will be watching to see how the fallout and newfound rivalries from this event shape his journey forward.
trick’s “ oh shit” i think somebody got hit 😭 pic.twitter.com/Tdk2589yv8
— chey⚡️ (@meloismone) January 9, 2026
